game development is a big thing, and 3D even more so. I wish I could just tell you "buy this book, and this software, and you can make 3D games!" but alas, it's not that simple. The good news is game development is such a diverse world it can be easy to decide where you want to go, and then start doing it! For example, I've gone from essentially zero knowledge in programming to a semi-competent networking programmer for a group Java project in about six months, mostly with Google searches to aid me.

If you want to program in Java (which I'd recommend, it's easy to learn & powerful to use!) I'd HIGHLY recommend the Head-First Java book, it's what got me started and it's very easy & fun reading.

As for 3D game-development, this Google search can get you started, and just browse from there. A few hours later, you'll probably have a better understanding of the field.

Hi Cameron, That is a good book, although I didnt like the style of the writting it has some great topics, I have yet (dispite owning the book for a year) to finish reading it or to have written a game....yet (be warned )

The one piece of advice I can give, is start small. Get the basics. I started to write a poker game, I was more interested in trying to use SVG to paint the cards then the atcual poker game...I am still working on it and havent even got the poker "engine" working, and not got anywhere near SVG.

If you want to do networked games check out the Sun Game Server/Project DarkStar, that looks very interesting to me (and i feel it has potential outside of games).